Can I fill my bean bag with anything other than beans? Shredded foam?

Great question – yes, you can! While traditional polystyrene beans are the most common filling, there are several alternative options available depending on your comfort preferences, intended use, and environmental values.

Shredded memory foam or furniture-grade foam offers a soft, plush, couch-like feel and is popular for indoor use. It holds its shape well and provides long-lasting support.

However, it’s important to note that shredded foam is not suitable for outdoor bean bags or pool floats. When exposed to moisture, it can absorb water, disintegrate, and become mould-prone. For any outdoor or water-adjacent bean bag, we strongly recommend sticking with standard polystyrene bean bag filling.

Options like recycled textiles or biodegradable beads can be used for indoor bean bags, but:

For children’s bean bags, a fun and practical alternative is using old or unwanted stuffed toys as filling. This is a great way to recycle soft toys and create a plush, squishy seat for your little one.
​Important: Only bean bags with inner liners are suitable for this purpose, as they feature longer zippers for easy access and safe closure.

For best overall performance, especially in outdoor, poolside, or commercial environments, we recommend using standard polystyrene bean bag filling, available at most department and hardware stores. It’s:

Yes – you can use shredded foam, eco-friendly materials, or even stuffed toys as alternative fillings, depending on your needs.

Still unsure which filling to use? Contact our team – we’re happy to help you choose the right option for your lifestyle and space.